Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview

Jesus' wisdom compels us to give honor to governments and ourselves to God.

A. Live by the surpassing wisdom of Jesus.

B. Give to human governments within limits.

C. Give yourself to God without limits.

Digging Deeper

Read Luke 20:20-26

1. How does believing that all resources are ultimately God’s help us in submitting to the government? (e.g., paying taxes with faith God will provide, or not allowing our hope to be controlled by government over/underspending).

2. Name (in less than 30 seconds!) an area of politics which often frustrates you. What do you think Jesus would have to say about it? Try to consider any Scripture passages referencing this area.

3. How can we use the surpassing wisdom of Jesus to interact with governing authorities well?

4. Where do you think you need to consciously limit - or elevate - the honor or trust you place in government? Why?

5. How might we approach political involvement/rhetoric as a Christian witness to others? What about criticism of political leaders?

6. What areas of your life (if any) do you think might be affected too much by politics? (areas named in the sermon were time, affections, and community)

7. Read CrossWay’s fourth defining value below:

“As a result of our personal experience of God’s love through the Gospel, we eagerly seek to obey the first and greatest commandment—to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind. This love is the natural and joyful response to experiencing God’s gracious forgiveness, for the one who is “forgiven much, loves much.” This love for God will be expressed in all we do, but it will find a particularly heightened expression in worship, both personal and corporate.”

What tends to limit you from loving God wholeheartedly?

8. Suppose a friend or coworker comes to you to vent about the most recent thing happening in the news. What would be a gospel-shaped response?

9. How do you need to trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty this week?

Prayer